World leaders in minerals and energy research sign agreement

14 July 2010

Curtin University of Technology in Western Australia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Colorado School of Mines, agreeing to expand the level of collaboration on minerals and energy education and research between the two world-class mining research and education institutions.

Curtin’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Development, Professor Linda Kristjanson, said the agreement, The 21st Century Earth Resources Initiative, would initially focus on strategic metals, CO2 sequestration and energy economics.

“Significant issues surrounding minerals and energy were once largely domestic concerns, but now they are truly international in nature and require an international response,” Professor Kristjanson said.

Initial research collaborations between Curtin and the Colorado School of Mines will include the international availability of uranium, carbon dioxide sequestration and issues of energy economics for the minerals industry.

“Curtin and the Colorado School of Mines make natural partners, as there are substantial similarities between their academic cultures,” Professor Kristjanson said.

“In particular, both have a strategic interest in collaborations and a strong focus on applied research for the minerals and energy sectors.”

Colorado School of Mines Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer, Dr. John Poate, said this agreement would bring together two leaders in the minerals and energy arena.

“Through this MOU, Curtin and the Colorado School of Mines will focus on crucial areas in the minerals and energy space, including the world wide supply of uranium,” Dr. Poate said.